Defending MotoGP world champion Jorge Lorenzo is resigned to battling for the runner-up spot in the series ahead of the final three rounds on the calendar.

Lorenzo wrapped up the world crown at Phillip Island in Australia last year but faces a very different scenario this weekend, where young rookie sensation Marc Marquez has his first opportunity to make history by becoming the young premier class champion ever.

Repsol Honda star Marquez leads the way by 43 points and although Lorenzo won't give up until it is impossible to retain his title, the Spaniard realistically believes he is now in a battle for second place with Dani Pedrosa.

“I'm still a bit disappointed after Malaysia because we thought we could get a better result. The championship is very difficult now with three races remaining but at least we fought and we put all our efforts to win it,” said Lorenzo, who finished third behind Pedrosa and Marquez at Sepang.

“Phillip Island is a pretty track that I like a lot. Last year I achieved my second MotoGP world title there and that was a fantastic feeling.

“This time hopefully the weather is not so bad and we can have some fun. I would like to win as many races as possible until the end of the season at Valencia.

“That's our main goal and also to fight with Dani for second place in the championship, that is if we can't get the title; that is looking quite difficult now,” added Lorenzo, who has never tasted success at Phillip Island before, although he has scaled the top step in the 250cc class in 2006 and 2007.

“I guess this circuit can suit us better than Aragon or Malaysia so I look forward to riding in a good shape in Australia.”

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The "Lorenzo developed" bike won the title last year in case you had forgotten Savage.
This year Honda have simply brought a more sorted package to the fore.
But that hasnt stopped Jorge taking the battle to them at every opportunity.
Noone can accuse him of not trying to defend his title.